Newcastle might not be the first location that springs to mind when considering your next city break, but this Tyneside metropolis is definitely deserving of your consideration.
With direct flights to the city available next summer from both Jersey and Guernsey, it has never been easier to experience what makes the North East of England so special.
Don’t just take our word for it – Newcastle has been consistently voted as one of the best places to live in the UK, and Rough Guides voted it the best place to visit in 2018, and for good reason. This small but perfectly formed city and the neighbouring town of Gateshead have world-class museums and galleries, a stellar food scene, and a surprising history and heritage.
Newcastle is also a great base for exploring attractions in the wider region, such as national parks, the Northumberland Coast, or the Roman remains of Hadrian’s Wall.
This northern gem often gets overlooked in favour of other popular UK cities like Liverpool or Manchester. But here are seven reasons why you should nip to the North East for your next adventure:
Newcastle is a beautiful city with iconic landmarks
Newcastle and the North East are not short of striking views. Visit the Quayside to see the seven bridges across the River Tyne, including the picture-perfect Gateshead Millennium Bridge, and do not miss Anthony Gormley’s iconic Angel of the North statue, located in Gateshead, just outside the city centre.
It has some of the UK’s best nightlife
Newcastle is famous for its vibrant nightlife and if you’re seeking drinks and merriment, you won’t struggle to find either in the Quayside area on a weekend night. Whether you’re a connoisseur of innovative cocktails or local craft ale, this city has a watering hole for you. Plus, theatre-goers will find shows of all genres and numerous comedy clubs.
It’s home to a fantastic foodie scene
Newcastle’s food scene offers international street food, hearty pub grub, innovative fine dining, a thriving cafe culture and hipster hang-outs. Enjoy everything from Michelin-starred cuisine to dirty burgers. Whether it’s breakfast time or you’re in need of late night nibbles, you’ll be in for a foodie treat.
Newcastle is bursting with creativity
Newcastle and Gateshead are blessed with some of the finest galleries in the UK, from the Laing Art Gallery and Hatton Gallery to Shipley Art Gallery in Gateshead, Ouseburn’s The Biscuit Factory, and the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art.
The city is also home to incredible street art, theatres and live music venues, like the Sage Gateshead or The Cluny.
Newcastle is a city steeped in heritage
For splendid views over the city, visit Newcastle’s 12th century castle, which gives the city its name, and explore the city’s architectural styles which range from the Medieval to the contemporary. There are even examples of the region’s Roman heritage.
It’s close to coast and countryside
Whether you want to explore the wilds of Northumberland National Park, go puffin spotting on the Farne Islands, or hike along the North Pennines, Newcastle’s handy location puts all these activities within easy reach.
The North East of England is worth exploring
Flying to Newcastle opens up access to some of England’s most quaint and beautiful locations, like the pretty town of Durham or the Roman remains of Hadrian’s Wall. The beautiful Alnwick Castle will be familiar to Harry Potter fans as the home of Hogwarts for the first two films. The Northumberland landmark has also featured in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Downton Abbey.
